The Kansas City Chiefs once again have another starting offensive player opt-out of the 2020 season. This time it’s running-back Damien Williams who has announced that he is opting out of the season. Laurent Duvernay-Tardif was the first Chief to opt-out to risk his health rather for patients instead of football.
Damien Williams didn’t have the best 2019 season while only rushing for 498 rushing yards and 5 touchdowns. Even though he was limited to 11 games, Williams played a major role in their Super Bowl winning run.
On Super Bowl Sunday, the Chiefs’ running-back ran for 104 yards and a pair of touchdowns against an outstanding 49ers defense. Williams even had the last two scores of the game to seal the championship victory, leaving no doubt on his impact to the team.
Chiefs GM, Brett Veach, had this to say following the announcement:
“As an organization, we certainly understand and respect Damien’s choice, knowing it was made in the best interest of his family. He means a lot to our football team as a player and a person, and we’re going to miss having him around this season.”
Luckily, Kansas City was well prepared for this decision when they drafted LSU’s Clyde Edwards-Helaire with their first round pick. The rookie running-back will be a new player to keep an eye on for the reining Super Bowl champs. Kansas City was already high on Clyde as a complimentary piece to Damien Williams. Now with him sitting out, Clyde becomes the feature back and unquestioned starter.